Katherine Loughead

By: Emily Lehner

Katherine Loughead was an Indiana Wesleyan student from 2009 to 2013. She studied English and Business Administration, and also was a part of the John Wesley Honors College. She stated, “The most formative part of my college experience at Indiana Wesleyan was the friendships I developed. One of the other things I look back on most fondly of my time there was being in the honors college.”

Loughead’s years at IWU were formative for her spiritual life. IWU excels at creating a culture that encourages growth. “I would say having a strong Christian support community and having professors that care personally about you was the most important. The environment allows growth and exploration and development as a person,” Loughead said.

When asked how she specifically grew spiritually during her time as a student, Loughead mentioned her RA, Megan Hindes, and the influence Hindes had on her as a freshman. “I think I was nervous to come to college at first, but she really took us all in under in her wing. She was always encouraging and making sure we were doing well spiritually,” said Loughead.

Spiritual growth was not the only growth that Loughead gained from her time at IWU. The honors college professors allow the freedom for students to explore their interests. Although Loughead did not major in Political Science, her interest for it led her to spend time researching the area.

“It was through the honors college that I found out about an internship program in D.C., and after that is when I knew that working and living here is what I want to do. One of the professors in the honors college allowed me to dive deeper into that. He gave me opportunities to do a thesis about political science,” said Loughead.

Day to day, Loughead works as an assistant to member of Congress, Ryan Costello. She works with a set of policies that deal with tax, budget, education, transportation, etc. The job is diverse, which is why Loughead said she enjoys it. “I love that everyday is different. I am always learning everyday. I could come from any background and just jump right in, learning as I go. IWU provided me with a well-rounded education that enabled me to feel comfortable jumping right into a field that wasn’t in my chosen field of study,” she stated.

With Washington D.C. being a secular environment, Loughead believes that her firm foundation from IWU was necessary to help her excel. “We are known for being a divided city, so having that firm spiritual foundation is so important. It has to be overflowing to influence those around you.”

Loughead resides in Washington D.C. and has continued to obtain academic success from Georgetown University, receiving her Paralegal license.

 

Written by Emily Lehner, writer for the Alumni Center and a sophomore Writing major at IWU. She is active on the cross country and track teams. She is passionate about using her writing skills to share the good news of Christ with others and writes often on her personal blog at www.emilylehner.wordpress.com.